Parents and Families

The New and Improved Intramural Sports Building

Students will soon enjoy a freshly renovated Intramural Sports Building (IMSB), with many significant updates, including increased space for cardio, strength and group fitness programs.

The IMSB was built in 1928 and was the first collegiate intramural sports building in the United States. As you can imagine, this presented challenges for renovation. But fear not, the historic charm of the IMSB was preserved and even enhanced. For example, students can now enjoy better natural light because windows that had been closed off or frosted were replaced with new, clear, energy-efficient windows.

Other notable features of the building include:

More than 200 additional pieces of cardio and strength equipment

New locker rooms, which include gender inclusive restrooms

Air conditioning and wi-fi throughout the building

Enhanced gathering spaces where students can socialize, do homework and relax

Improved accessibility with the installation of an elevator, chair lift and ramps into the building

Sustainability aspects of the IMSB are also notable and include:

Greater efficiency e.g. showers and other plumbing use 20 percent less water

Reuseable materials and wood flooring was used

Staff offices are PlanetBlue-certified

Energy savings were designed to exceed standard practices by 30 percent

"Overall, the new IMSB will provide a much improved facility for our students to stay active, healthy and engaged," says Sarah Button, Recreational Sports Coordinator of Membership, Marketing and Sponsorship.

The IMSB is one of three Recreational Sports facilities, and all students have access to all of the facilities. Programs and services are extensive, with special pricing available. Examples include:

Group-X will offer 26 group classes at the IMSB each week, with more than 90 total classes available between all three buildings during the week. Classes include PiYo, Yoga Flow, Cardio Hip Hop, and Zumba, among many others.

Certified personal trainers offer Personal Training to help students meet their goals.

A new Intramural Pass, available for purchase, provides unlimited access to play sports.

Planning for the project was extensive. "Students were highly involved in the design and planning process," explains Laura Rayner, Construction Project Coordinator. "We had feedback from student organizations as well as many current users along with faculty and staff groups."

The total project cost of the IMSB renovation was $21.4 million, funded by a new student fee charged to all current U-M students, along with additional funding from Athletics, Parking and Transportation, and Student Life.

A special grand reopening celebration will take place on October 6, 2016, 3-5pm. The IMSB building is located at 606 E. Hoover, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.

To help Student Life continue making a difference in students' lives, please consider making a gift.